Why have I been prescribed duloxetine?

• Duloxetine belongs to the group of Serotonin Noradrenergic Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRI) and is also used to treat depression.
• It is especially good for nerve pain, such as burning, shooting or stabbing pain, and for pain that keeps you awake at night. 
• Duloxetine is used to treat some types of persistent pain.
• Duloxetine works by reducing pain messages coming from the brain. It inhibits serotonin and nor epinephrine reuptake in the CNS.

When should I take it?

• Follow doctors instructions and take as advised in the prescription. It is preferable to take duloxetine at the same time each day. 
• Duloxetine may be taken on an empty or full stomach. 
• You will be told how much to start taking and when to increase the dose.

What if I forget or miss a dose?

• Take it as soon as you remember.
• Do not take two doses together.

How long will it take to work?

• Difficult to predict as every patient is different. You may notice some benefit as early as a week or it might take up to 1 month for a full effect. Your doctor may need to increase the dose to get the maximum effect. 
• Duloxetine does not work for everyone. If you do not feel any improvement in your pain, do not suddenly stop but contact your doctor for further advise.
• What are the possible side effects? 
• Common side effects : headache, drowsiness, vomiting (nausea), dizziness, fatigue,blurred vision and dry mouth. If you have these side effects and they are severe contact your doctor for further advice. 
• Less common side effects : loss of appetite, flushes, raised blood pressure, difficulty sleeping, feeling anxious, shaky and increased sweating. If any of these side effects occur contact your doctor for advice. 
• Can I take this medication long-term? 
• Yes, if it helps. You need to review your treatment to check if your pain is still a problem and when to come off the medicines.